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Thrifty · South Korea

Does Thrifty require an IDP in South Korea?

Yes, bring one
South Korea legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter.
Get my permit for South Korea All Thrifty requirements
Thrifty in South Korea
Thrifty IDP policyRequired for foreign drivers
Thrifty footprintGlobal
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Minimum rental age18+ (surcharge under 25)
Drives on theRight

Thrifty in South Korea: the policy in plain terms

Requires an IDP in select countries and for non-Roman-alphabet licences. Budget-friendly brand paired with Dollar in many markets.

An IDP issued in your home country is required to drive in South Korea.

In South Korea specifically, south Korea legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter. 1949 Geneva IDP required at all rental desks.

Thrifty runs a global network; at its South Korea desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1949 Geneva-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. South Korea drives on the right, uses the KRW, and sets a minimum driving age of 18, so an IDP is the document that removes any doubt at the counter.

What to bring to the Thrifty counter in South Korea

  • Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
  • Your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format.
  • Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
  • Local payment for the KRW deposit; South Korea drives on the right with a young-driver surcharge under 25.

Driving rules in South Korea Thrifty renters should know

  • Extensive speed and red-light camera network.
  • 0.03% alcohol limit; licence revoked above 0.08%.
  • Bus lanes restricted during set hours.
  • Carry passport, IDP and home licence.

Common questions

01
Do I need an IDP to rent from Thrifty in South Korea?
South Korea legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter.
02
What documents should I bring to the Thrifty desk in South Korea?
Bring your original national driving licence, your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format, your passport, and the payment card in the main driver's name. South Korea drives on the right and the minimum rental age is typically 18+.
03
What is Thrifty's general policy on International Driving Permits?
Requires an IDP in select countries and for non-Roman-alphabet licences. Budget-friendly brand paired with Dollar in many markets.
All Thrifty countriesDriving in South Korea